Integral and Surface Treatment Method of Waterproofing: A Review and Comparative Analysis

Abstract

Water seepage into concrete can cause deterioration and other aesthetic issues that limit the life of concrete constructions. This paper examines and contrasts the various kinds of waterproofing techniques. There are essentially two types: surface treatment method and integral method. Water repellents, crystalline admixtures, and densifiers are examples of integral methods. Surface treatment methods encompass pore-blocking, hydrophobic impregnation, surface coating, and multifunctional surface treatment. The processes of various approaches are examined in this article, followed by a comparison of their durability and mechanical properties. We discuss several properties, such as sulfate attack, chloride penetration, carbonation, reinforcement corrosion, water absorption and permeability, compressive, flexural, and tensile strength. The findings indicate that each has merits and demerits of their own. The inclusion of an integral admixture to concrete offers a number of advantages over surface protection, including convenience of application, the removal of the need for ongoing maintenance, and minimal to no deterioration over time. While surface treatment methods significantly reduce water permeability and porosity. In conclusion, we give a succinct summary of certain issues regarding the present state of research and future directions for the hydrophobic modification of concrete.